Female Genital Mutilation and Social Media

'Christina Julios's Female Genital Mutilation and Social Media is that rare thing: a rigorously researched and brilliantly argued scholarly book which manages to be immensely readable. Julios writes about the power and limitations of anti-FGM cyberactivism, considering its at times fraught relationship with offline grassroots campaigns. Female Genital Mutilation and Social Media is a guide to the complex discourses circulating around FGM in both real and virtual worlds; it examines narratives of cultural practice, religious belief, and gendered behaviour through an intersectional, interdisciplinary prism. This is a book which will surely play a vital role in ending the global human rights abuse that is FGM.' Emma Rees, Director of the Institute of Gender Studies at the University of Chester, UK

'This book draws valuable attention to the insights of grassroots activists who have taken the lead in making sure ending FGC continues to be located at the heart of the global human rights agenda. By bringing together FGC and cyberactivism, Christina Julios examines the ways anti-FGC campaigning has evolved over time to address today's global virtual audiences. Importantly, this book not only discusses the barriers to the abandonment of FGC, but it further contributes to the much-needed discussions on the challenges faced by the women's sector around the world.' Emmaleena Kaekelae, University of Strathclyde, UK

'Female Genital Mutilation and Social Media is the first book to examine the epic impact of social media on advocacy efforts to end this form of gender violence. With social media inherent to our everyday existence, Christina Julios digs deep to examine how cyberactivism builds support to enact laws and create outreach and educational programs, as well as how it has led to new challenges such as spreading of cyber-misogyny in virtual public spaces by proponents of FGM/C. This book is a needed first step in understanding the fight to uphold our human rights in today's virtual world.' Mariya Taher, MFA, MSW, Sahiyo Cofounder and US Network to End FGM/C Steering Committee